In the Bedford Park section of the Bronx, on the afternoon of October 2, 2024, Kavon Reid, a 40-year-old male from Yonkers, was walking along East 198th Street while on his phone. At approximately 1:47 p.m., an assailant, described as a male with a dark complexion, approached him. It appeared the suspect recognized Reid as he passed, then turned and fired multiple shots, striking him in the back. The bullets hit Reid in the chest and leg.
Despite the grave injuries, Reid managed to run for a block before collapsing near Bainbridge Avenue.
Emergency medical services rushed Reid to St. Barnabas Hospital, but he was pronounced dead upon arrival. The shooter, who was wearing a gray hoodie, black pants, gray sneakers, and a blue face mask, fled the scene heading south on Pond Place. The New York Police Department launched an investigation, reviewing surveillance footage from the area to identify the person responsible for the brazen daytime shooting. Reid was a father of three and a member of the anti-gun violence advocacy group BRAG. His daughter, Hevyn Reid, described him as a good person and her best friend, stating that he would be deeply missed.
A week after the fatal shooting, the NYPD announced an arrest in the case. On October 9, 2024, 19-year-old Brandon Hayes of the Bronx was taken into custody. He was charged with murder, manslaughter, and criminal possession of a weapon in connection with Kavon Reid's death. The motive for the shooting is still under investigation by police. Hayes was scheduled to appear in court on October 11, 2024.
